The proposed Substitute Senate Bill No. 9 (sSB9 File No. 418) aims to enhance flood risk awareness and climate resilience in Connecticut through a series of new mandates and provisions. Effective from July 1, 2025, the bill requires insurance producers and surplus lines brokers to inform applicants for personal risk insurance about the availability of flood insurance, including a written acknowledgment of this disclosure. Additionally, mortgage creditors must notify applicants about the limitations of standard homeowners insurance regarding flood damage. The bill also mandates that sellers provide a flood disclosure notice to prospective buyers, detailing the property's flood risk, and requires landlords to inform tenants about flood risks before entering rental agreements. Furthermore, the bill expands coastal site plan review requirements for new constructions and prohibits state funding for residential structures in flood-prone areas.

In addition to flood risk management, the bill establishes a framework for municipalities to create "resiliency improvement districts" aimed at addressing climate change impacts. These districts can finance projects through various means, including tax increment revenues and benefit assessments. The bill also mandates that municipalities develop evacuation and hazard mitigation plans that consider climate change threats and requires updates to local and state plans to incorporate climate resilience strategies. Notably, the bill introduces significant changes to pesticide regulations, classifying certain rodenticides as restricted-use and prohibiting the sale of neonicotinoids. Overall, sSB9 seeks to improve environmental protection, enhance municipal planning, and promote sustainable development in response to climate challenges.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 20-327c, 7-364, 8-23, 28-5, 8-2e, 8-2f
ENV Joint Favorable Substitute: 20-327c, 7-364, 8-23, 28-5, 8-2e, 8-2f
File No. 418: 20-327c, 7-364, 8-23, 28-5, 8-2e, 8-2f